If you want to truly explore all that South Dakota’s great outdoors have to offer, spend the night camping. Not only will you be surrounded by natural beauty, but when the sun sets, you’ll witness thousands of stars in the night sky. Here’s a campground that you won’t want to miss this summer.
Badlands National Park has several campgrounds to choose from, but the Sage Creek Campground offers a unique experience.
vicariouslythrulisa/Tripadvisor
Located in the North unit of the park, this campground is pretty popular, partially due to the fact that there’s no fee to camp here. It offers just the most basic of amenities - picnic shelters and pit toilets. Pack in your own water, and make sure you bring everything you need.
Brady D/Tripadvisor
You’ll reach the campground on a dirt road, and large RVs aren’t allowed here, so your outdoor experience is a little more peaceful and quiet.
Anna C/Tripadvisor
Campfires aren’t allowed here due to fire hazard, and you’ll need to leave your generator at home too (which is part of what makes this campground so quiet and relaxing). You’re welcome to use a charcoal grill or camp stove.
Anna C/Tripadvisor
Your campsite might have a visitor or two while you’re there. The bison at the park love to hang out at this Sage Creek, so you’ll likely see them up close.
James Herndon/Google
You’ll also enjoy plenty of other wildlife, including bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, deer, coyotes, and more.
James Herndon/Google
Take a hike to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings and spot wildlife.
Ken Kunkle/Google
After a long day of exploring, you’ll be treated to a real show. Badlands National Park is one of the best spots for stargazing in the state, and thanks to its lack of light pollution, you’ll be able to see thousands of stars in the night sky.
Dale Bohlke/flickr
Check out the Milky Way, and spot constellations and planets, too. You’ll want to stay up all night, gazing heavenward.
Pfaffenfroth/flickr
For more information about staying at Sage Creek Campground, visit the Badlands National Park’s website. Have you had the opportunity to witness the night sky above Badlands National Park? While you’re at the park, take this scenic drive!
vicariouslythrulisa/Tripadvisor
Brady D/Tripadvisor
Anna C/Tripadvisor
James Herndon/Google
James Herndon/Google
Ken Kunkle/Google
Dale Bohlke/flickr
Pfaffenfroth/flickr
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